Vol. 488 No. 2
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Dáil Éireann debate - Wednesday, 4 Mar 1998
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Written Answers. - Ferry Services.
101 Mr. Kenny asked the Minister for the Marine and Natural Resources the reason his Department is not consulted by the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands in regard to awarding tenders to ferry passengers to and from offshore islands; if this is usual practice, in view of the fact that his Department is the official certification Department for sea going vessels; and if he will make a statement on the matter. [5843/98]
As the Deputy is aware, all passenger vessels operating ferry services between offshore islands and the mainland are statutorily required to hold either a passenger vessel safety certificate, vessels carrying more than 12 passengers, or a passenger boat licence, vessels carrying 12 or fewer passengers, issued by my Department. The primary function of this certification procedure is to ensure that the vessel is fit to operate, subject to any conditions that may be imposed upon it, and that highest standards of safety are maintained.
The awarding of tenders to ferry passengers to and from offshore islands is the responsibility of the Department of Arts, Heritage, Gaeltacht and the Islands and my Department is not normally consulted in such matters. My Department is, however, available to that Department at all times to offer any advice as to the suitability of any vessel operating, or which is proposed to operate, such a service.
